How to Get Calcium into My Tomato Plants

Tomatoes are a popular and delicious vegetable that are often grown in home gardens. However, some tomato plants may develop a common condition called blossom end rot, which is caused by a lack of calcium in the plant's tissues. To prevent this from happening to your tomato plants, it's important to know how to get calcium into your tomato plants. In this article, we'll explore several methods that can help your tomato plants absorb more calcium and thrive.

Use Calcium-Rich Fertilizers

One of the easiest ways to get calcium into your tomato plants is by using calcium-rich fertilizers. These fertilizers are formulated with ingredients that have high levels of calcium, such as ground oyster shells, bone meal, and dolomite lime. You can find these fertilizers at your local garden center or online.

When using calcium-rich fertilizers, it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Over-fertilizing your plants can be just as harmful as under-fertilizing them. Apply the fertilizer evenly around the base of each plant, and water your plants well after fertilizing to help the nutrients absorb into the soil.

Add Calcium to the Soil

If your soil is low in calcium, it may be necessary to add calcium directly to the soil. One common method is to add crushed eggshells to the soil, which are a great source of calcium. Simply save your eggshells and crush them into small pieces before adding them to the soil around your tomato plants.

You can also add powdered calcium to the soil, such as gypsum or limestone. These can be purchased at your local garden center or online. However, as with fertilizers, it's important to follow the instructions carefully and avoid over-applying the calcium, as this can lead to issues with other nutrients.

Provide Consistent Moisture

Tomato plants that experience fluctuations in moisture levels may be more prone to blossom end rot. To prevent this, it's important to provide your plants with consistent moisture throughout the growing season. This means watering your plants regularly, but not overwatering them.

When watering your tomato plants, be sure to water deeply and evenly around each plant. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can increase the risk of disease. Mulching around the base of each plant can also help to retain moisture in the soil and keep it from evaporating too quickly.

Conclusion

Getting calcium into your tomato plants is an important part of keeping them healthy and free from blossom end rot. By using calcium-rich fertilizers, adding calcium to the soil, and providing consistent moisture, you can help your tomato plants thrive and produce tasty, healthy fruit. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these tips can help you get the most out of your tomato plants.